Whitney and Zach

Whitney came to visit Zach, her brother,  who works with us in the home building project for victims of the 2010 earthquake.  Her visit was way too short but she promises to return and stay longer.  

OWU

Nine students and two staff from Ohio Wesleyan University spent this past week with us.  They worked in our schools, led some workshops, played soccer, presided over art projects and just had a good time.  The kids were sad to see them leave as they bonded big time with them.  We look forward to more visits and a long-term relationship with OWU. 

Flag Day 2011

Today is Flag Day here and it is traditional to have a parade so we did.  The children meandered around the property followed by the others and ended up in the Quonset building where they sang the national anthem and other patriotic songs, enjoyed a couple of skits, listened to older children talk about Haiti's history and the origin of the flag.  Snacks followed and a good time was had by most.

Teacher Appreciation Day

Maitre Samuel and Maitre Ganeau, two of our over 50 teachers being honored today.  We are blessed to have such dedicated professionals working with us.

Individual classes showed their appreciation to their teachers and a show was put on by the students for all teachers.  Above are the folklore dancers doing their bit.

Space was limited so many students had to settle for standing outside and watching the events.

Earth blocks

Here's a photo of the earth blocks our guys are making for the Guest House wall.  The bulk of the blocks  is clay from our property. We add some sand and a little cement (as a binder).  This is the most economical and ecological solution.  The drying process is a little tricky but we'll keep at it.

Sister Evelyne Tremblay

Sr. Evelyne dropped by this morning.  She was in town for the anniversary of the Brenda Strafford Hospital which she founded and guided for 30 years.  It became the best EENT hospital in the country under her watchful eye.  Sr. retired three years ago, took a well earned vacation and is now working in a clinic up north.  Sister Evelyne is a dear friend who helped me and Pwoje Espwa at the beginning of our existence when we had nothing.  She'd take in the sick kids, provide medicine for us and was always encouraging.  This is one terrific lady and we are blessed to count her as a friend.

Touch up time

Dickenson sprucing up the Quad with paint.  Lucky for him that the paint was the same color as his t-shirt.

Tried to be creative but my automatic camera could not handle the "contre-jour" lighting.

Robert doing some trim work with the wrong brush.